Robot Workpiece Positioning Layout for Compact Multi-Robot Cells
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing positioning apparatuses for workpieces in relation to industrial robots are limited by the number of robots that can be used due to width constraints, leading to inefficient processing and complex cable routing, with prior systems not addressing compact design or height reduction effectively.
Innovation Solution
A positioning apparatus with a support member that moves between two positions, allowing simultaneous processing and loading/unloading of workpieces, and features a support surface positioned between a motor and base surface to reduce system height and simplify cable routing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple industrial robots are provided outside the positioning apparatus, then processing time is reduced, but the number of robots is limited to maximum two due to width constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from horizontal arrangement of robots outside the apparatus to vertical arrangement on top of the apparatus. This dimensional change allows multiple robots (more than two) to be accommodated by utilizing the vertical space above the positioning apparatus, thereby increasing robot capacity without being constrained by the horizontal width of the workpiece.
2Productivity
If industrial robots are positioned above the positioning apparatus, then processing time is further reduced, but system height increases
Solution Approach 1:
The robots are nested on top of the positioning apparatus structure, utilizing the existing vertical space. The support surface for the robots is integrated into the apparatus structure, allowing the robots to be positioned above without significantly increasing the overall system height footprint.
3Adaptability or versatility
If support surface is positioned above the motor, then robot capacity is increased, but system height increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support surface is positioned in the horizontal plane above the motor rather than vertically stacking components. This allows multiple robots to be accommodated on the support surface without proportionally increasing system height, as the capacity increase is achieved through horizontal distribution on the support surface.
4Adaptability or versatility
If complex cable routing is implemented to serve multiple robots, then robot capacity is increased, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A cable management system with routing channels and guides is introduced as an intermediary structure. This mediator organizes and directs cables from the base to the robots on the support surface, simplifying cable routing by providing dedicated pathways and reducing the complexity of connecting multiple robots.
Data Source
AI summary
A positioning apparatus for positioning workpieces in relation to at least one industrial robot, the positioning apparatus including a stationary base structure having a support surface for supporting one or more of the at least one industrial robot and a base surface for mounting to an installation surface; a first workpiece support for supporting a first workpiece; a second workpiece support for supporting a second workpiece; a support member supporting the first workpiece support and the second workpiece support, the support member being arranged to move between a first position and a second position; and a motor arranged to drive the support member between the first position and the second position, wherein the support surface is arranged between the motor and the base surface.